Goshen Coach

From Foundation to Transition: The Journey of Goshen Coach in the Bus Manufacturing Industry
The story of Goshen Coach, an American cutaway bus builder, is one marked by transitions, ownership changes, and industry shifts. Founded in 1985 and based in Salina, Kansas, Goshen Coach quickly established itself as a reputable manufacturer of cutaway buses. However, its journey took several turns over the years, leading to significant changes in ownership and operations.

In 2005, Goshen Coach came under the ownership of Thor Industries, a prominent player in the recreational vehicle and bus manufacturing industry. Under Thor's ownership, Goshen Coach continued to thrive, maintaining its reputation for quality and reliability in the market.

However, in August 2013, Thor Industries made the decision to sell Goshen Coach to Allied Specialty Vehicles, which later rebranded as REV Group. This acquisition marked a new chapter for Goshen Coach, as it became part of a larger umbrella organization with a diverse portfolio of specialty vehicle brands.

Unfortunately, despite its history of success, Goshen Coach faced a setback when REV Group made the decision to close its factory in Salina, Kansas, on October 31, 2016. This closure signaled the end of an era for Goshen Coach as an independent manufacturing entity.

Nevertheless, the Goshen Coach brand name endured, albeit under different circumstances. REV Group continued to utilize the Goshen Coach name for some buses produced at other facilities, including the ElDorado facility in Salina, Kansas, and the Champion Bus facility in Imlay City, Michigan. Despite the factory closure, the Goshen Coach legacy persisted through these continued operations.

In May 2020, another significant development reshaped the trajectory of Goshen Coach. REV Group made the decision to sell its cutaway bus businesses, including the Goshen Coach brand name, to Forest River, a leading manufacturer of recreational vehicles and buses. With this acquisition, Goshen Coach became part of the Forest River family, signaling a new phase in its history.

Since its acquisition by Forest River, the Goshen Coach brand name has undergone changes. While the brand name itself is no longer in active use, the legacy of Goshen Coach lives on through Forest River's operations and product offerings.

The journey of Goshen Coach reflects the dynamic nature of the bus manufacturing industry, characterized by shifts in ownership, factory closures, and brand transitions. Despite the challenges faced along the way, the legacy of Goshen Coach endures, serving as a reminder of its contributions to the industry over the years.

The evolution of Goshen Coach from its founding to its acquisition by Forest River highlights the resilience and adaptability of companies in the face of change. As part of Forest River, the legacy of Goshen Coach continues to shape the landscape of the bus manufacturing industry, leaving an indelible mark on its history.